Discover Liguria's DOP Food Treasures This Summer: A 5-Day Itinerary
Liguria, known for its stunning coastline, charming villages, and exquisite cuisine, is a perfect destination for food lovers. This summer, immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Liguria by exploring its DOP (Denominazione d'Origine Protetta) food products. Here’s a 5-day itinerary designed to take you off the beaten path and into the heart of Liguria’s culinary delights.
Day 1: Genoa - Pesto and Focaccia
Morning:
Pesto alla Genovese Experience: Start your journey in Genoa, the capital of Liguria and the birthplace of Pesto alla Genovese DOP. Visit a local basil farm to learn about the cultivation of Genovese basil. Participate in a hands-on pesto-making class and enjoy your freshly made pesto with traditional trofie pasta. You can book this directly on ATLAS right here
Afternoon:
Focaccia Tasting Tour: Stroll through Genoa’s historic center and visit a local bakery to taste Focaccia di Recco IGP, a thin, cheese-filled focaccia. Learn about the history and techniques behind this beloved Ligurian specialty.
Evening:
Explore Genoa: Wander through the narrow streets of Genoa’s UNESCO-listed old town. Visit landmarks like the Genoa Cathedral and the Palazzo Ducale. For dinner, savor local dishes at a traditional osteria.
Day 2: Cinque Terre - Anchovies and Local Wine
Morning:
Cinque Terre Exploration: Travel to the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre. Start in Monterosso al Mare, known for its anchovies. Visit a local fishery to see how Acciughe sotto Sale del Mar Ligure IGP (salted anchovies) are prepared and taste these delicacies.
Afternoon:
Lunch with a View: Enjoy a seafood lunch at a cliffside restaurant in Vernazza, featuring dishes made with local anchovies and other fresh catches from the Ligurian Sea.
Evening:
Vineyard Visit: Head to Manarola for a tour of a local vineyard producing Cinque Terre DOC wine. Enjoy a tasting session while taking in the breathtaking views of the terraced vineyards and the sea. For dinner, indulge in regional specialties at a local trattoria.
Day 3: Savona - Olive Oil and Pigato Wine
Morning:
Olive Oil Mill Tour: Visit an olive oil mill in the Savona area that produces Olio Extra Vergine di Oliva Riviera Ligure DOP. Learn about the production process, from harvesting the olives to the cold pressing method. Sample various olive oils, noting the distinct flavors and aromas. You can book this directly on ATLAS right here
Afternoon:
Lunch with Olive Oil: Relish a lunch at a local agriturismo where the dishes are crafted to highlight the exquisite olive oil. Enjoy dishes like bruschetta, pasta with olive oil, and olive oil cake.
Evening:
Pigato Wine Tasting: Visit a winery producing Pigato DOC, a renowned Ligurian white wine. Tour the vineyards and cellars, and enjoy a guided tasting session. In the evening, explore the coastal town of Savona and dine at a local restaurant that pairs Pigato wine with traditional Ligurian cuisine.
Day 4: Imperia - Taggiasca Olives and Borage
Morning:
Taggiasca Olive Grove Visit: Head to the Imperia area and visit an olive grove that grows Taggiasca olives, known for their mild flavor and quality. Learn about the cultivation and harvesting of these olives, and enjoy a tasting of olives and olive oil.
Afternoon:
Lunch with Local Flavors: Have lunch at a local restaurant that features Taggiasca olives in its dishes. Savor specialties like olive tapenade, borage ravioli, and fish dishes garnished with these prized olives.
Evening:
Explore Imperia: Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Imperia. Visit the Olive Museum and learn about the region’s olive-growing history. For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local osteria, featuring dishes made with local ingredients.
Day 5: Portofino - Basil and Focaccia di Recco
Morning:
Portofino Exploration: Start your day in the picturesque village of Portofino. Take a leisurely walk around the harbor, visit the Castello Brown, and enjoy the stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.
Afternoon:
Basil and Herb Garden Tour: Visit a nearby basil and herb garden to learn about the aromatic herbs used in Ligurian cuisine. Enjoy a tasting of various herb-infused products, including pesto and herbal liqueurs.
Evening:
Focaccia di Recco Tasting: Return to Genoa for a final culinary delight. Visit a renowned bakery to taste Focaccia di Recco IGP, a unique cheese-filled focaccia that’s a Ligurian specialty. For dinner, indulge in a feast featuring the best of Ligurian cuisine, paired with local wines.
Final Thoughts
This 5-day itinerary through Liguria provides an immersive journey into the region's DOP food treasures. By exploring these off-the-beaten-path destinations, you’ll experience authentic flavors, support local producers, and gain a deeper appreciation for Liguria’s rich culinary heritage. This summer, let your taste buds guide you through an unforgettable adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful and delicious regions